Iran has deployed small submarines in the Strait of Hormuz to act as an "invisible guardian" amid stalled peace talks with the U.S., according to state media. The move escalates regional tensions, with Tehran aiming to assert control over the strategic waterway vital to global oil shipping. While no formal military conflict has erupted, the deployment signals heightened readiness to defend its perceived maritime interests.

The U.S. has not publicly responded, but previous sanctions and nuclear negotiations have kept relations fraught. Experts warn that such posturing could disrupt energy markets, as Hormuz facilitates 20% of global oil trade. Business leaders may face increased uncertainty, particularly in shipping and energy sectors reliant on the strait’s transit.